Immigration
The process of immigration should be an exciting time for those seeking to come to the United States of America. However, immigration can be a daunting endeavor, with complex changes being made with each new administration that enters the White House. Understanding the process and what is required is vital to obtaining a visa for entry, a green card for residency, and naturalization for those seeking citizenship. Licensed in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire, our attorneys offer immigration services to our clients and their families to assist them in navigating the overwhelming process of immigration law.
Some of the more popular services we provide are in the following areas:
Fiance Visas
Family Immigration
Adjustment of Status due to Marriage to a United States Citizen
Petitions to Remove Conditional Residency
Visas and Permanent Residency for Family Members
Green Card Renewals and Replacements
Citizenship and Naturalization
And more
Being the husband of an immigrant, and having gone through the process himself, Attorney Heiner is in a unique position to understand your needs and concerns. If you are struggling with the process of immigration for yourself or a family member, it is beneficial to have a lawyer by your side to provide you with the necessary information you require, and assist you in obtaining your visa, green card, or naturalized citizenship. Call our office today for a free immigration law consultation. 978-685-8777
FAQ About Immigration Law
What do immigration lawyers do and why would I hire one?
An immigration lawyer represents clients in an administrative court. They also counsel clients and guide them on the journey of their legal rights and obligations of immigration. An immigration lawyer has trusted knowledge and experience of immigration law and can best guide you on the overwhelming immigration process.
What are the four types of immigrant statuses?
The four types of immigrant statuses are U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, temporary visitor, and undocumented immigrant. A U.S. citizen is someone who was born and raised in the country and is a lawful permanent resident inside the borders. U.S. citizens have the right to live and work in the United States, and vote in local, state, and federal elections. Lawful permanent residents are those who have been issued a "green card" allowing them to live and work in the United States. They may qualify for citizenship after 5 continuous years of living in the U.S., or in some cases sooner. A temporary visitor status is someone who has received a temporary visa to remain in the country for only a temporary period. These people do not have a plan to stay in the country long and plan to return back to their home country. Lastly, undocumented immigrant status is made up of individuals who come into the U.S. without a visa or otherwise being inspected by authorities.
How can I renew my green card?
To renew your green card, you will need to go through the green card renewal process. This can be done either online or in the mail. You will need to file an I-90 and provide evidence, such as a copy of your expiring green card. You will then submit those photos or attach those documents in the mail, send it/submit it, and pay any required government fees. It is recommended that you begin the process to renew an expiring green card within six months of the expiration date
How can I stay in America legally?
There are various ways to assist you in staying in the United States legally, depending upon your situation. These can range from adjusting your status to that of a "green card" holder or requesting an extension of your nonimmigrant visa.
What is the difference between naturalization and citizenship?
Naturalization is the process of obtaining U.S. citizenship after meeting the requirements established in the Immigration and Nationality Act. This act is the basic body of immigration law and has been amended many times over the years with the most important revisions of immigration law. Acquisition of citizenship is obtained either at birth through U.S. citizenship parents or after birth before the age of 18. In short, citizenship is being vested with the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of a citizen of the country, while naturalization is the process of obtaining citizenship.
What is family immigration?
Family immigration is the migration of people who migrate from one country to another based on new or established family ties. There are two types of family immigration: immediate relative and family preference. Immediate relatives are visas based on a close family relationship of a U.S. citizen- a spouse, mother, father, or child. Family preferences are visas for specific and more distant family relationships of a U.S. citizen and some relationships with a lawful permanent resident. The number of immigrants in immediate relatives are not limited each fiscal year, while family preferences are limited each fiscal year.
How do I file for family immigration?
To file for family immigration, you must fill out an I-30 Petition for Alien Relatives. This form establishes that a relationship between you and your relative exists. Obtaining family visas can take a long time depending on the type you are categorized as.
Who qualifies for a family visa?
There are two groups of people who qualify for a family visa. The first is immediate relatives who are spouses of a U.S. citizen, unmarried children under 21 of a U.S. citizen, orphans soon to be children of U.S. citizens, and parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old. The second group is family preferences who are unmarried sons/daughters of U.S. citizens as well as their spouses and children. They could also be spouses, minor children, unmarried daughters or sons over 21 of lawful permanent residents or married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens and their spouses and minor children. The last group of family preferences could be brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, and their spouses and minor children, provided the U.S. citizens are at least 21 years old. These groups are more complicated and specific than immediate relatives but all can qualify for family visas.